The newly launched Kia Ceed will gain a performance-pitched GT version at the end of 2019.
Developed exclusively for European buyers and set to be unveiled at the Paris motor show in October, the second-generation GT follows from the original cee’d GT launched in 2013, and which was the first performance hatch from the Korean brand.
The car will make use of the 1.6-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine, producing 204hp and 265Nm of torque, and as an alternative to the standard-fit six-speed manual gearbox a seven-speed double-clutch auto will be available for the first time in the Ceed.
Kia says that the GT has undergone six months of additional testing compared to the standard Ceed range, with the aim of developing the chassis for more agility and stability in corners, as well as increased traction, while retaining everyday usability.
The car retains the same suspension geometry as the standard Ceed but with more bespoke tuning. Ride height is reduced by 5mm, springs stiffened and anti-roll bars softened to maintain tyre-to-road contact under heavy cornering.
The standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is retuned while Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system is fitted as standard, along with Torque Vectoring by Braking, the electronic aid braking the inside wheels to reduce understeer around corners
Larger front brakes are fitted, the 320mm vented discs being 32mm larger in diameter and 3mm thicker than the standard Ceed’s. They sit inside 18-inch standard-fit alloy wheels to a design specific to the model.
Visual differences to emphasise the car’s performance credentials include a bespoke front bumper with large pair intakes and gloss black trim, more substantial side sills in gloss black and red, a rear bumper with gloss black diffuser and a small roof spoiler.
Inside sports front seats in leather and suede and with red stitching are fitted, along with a D-shaped steering wheel and aluminium pedals. Cars with the double clutch transmission also gain alloy shaft paddles on the steering wheel, while the standard car’s grey cloth roofliner makes way for a black version.
As a top-level model the Ceed GT will be fitted with an extensive equipment specification. Full details, as well as performance figures and prices, will be announced closer to the car’s launch.
Kia will also unveiled the five-door coupe-styled ‘shooting brake’ version of the Ceed, the ProCeed, at the Paris show.